Symbols In Dr Jekyll And Mr Hyde

Unmasking the Beast: Symbolism in Robert Louis Stevenson's Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde

Robert Louis Stevenson's Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde transcends its genre as a gothic horror novel, functioning as a powerful exploration of duality, morality, and the repressed self. The novel’s enduring power lies not just in its thrilling narrative, but in its masterful use of symbolism, which elevates the story beyond a simple tale of good versus evil. Through carefully chosen symbols, Stevenson paints a chilling portrait of Victorian society’s anxieties and the inherent darkness lurking beneath the veneer of respectability. This article delves deep into the rich tapestry of symbols woven throughout the narrative, examining their individual significance and their collective contribution to the novel's enduring impact.

The Duality of Jekyll and Hyde: A Central Symbol

The most obvious and pervasive symbol in the novel is the duality represented by Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde themselves. They are not merely two separate personalities; they are two sides of the same coin, embodying the struggle between good and evil that resides within every human being. Jekyll, the respected physician and scientist, represents Victorian society's idealized image of respectability, reason, and morality. Hyde, on the other hand, is the embodiment of primal instincts, unrestrained desires, and unchecked savagery.

Their physical appearances further reinforce this symbolism. Jekyll is described as a distinguished gentleman, while Hyde is characterized by his grotesque features, small stature, and unsettling demeanor. This stark contrast highlights the inherent conflict between the civilized and the barbaric, the rational and the irrational, within the human psyche. The transformation itself, facilitated by a scientific concoction, symbolizes the attempt to artificially separate these opposing forces, ultimately highlighting the futility of such an endeavor. The inability to permanently suppress the "Hyde" within suggests that the darker aspects of human nature cannot be simply eradicated but only contained, at great cost.

The Symbolism of Doors and Thresholds

Stevenson utilizes doors and thresholds repeatedly throughout the novel to underscore the transitions between Jekyll and Hyde, between the public and private spheres, and between different levels of morality. The door to Jekyll's laboratory, for example, becomes a potent symbol of the liminal space where transformation occurs. It represents the boundary between the respectable facade of Jekyll and the monstrous reality of Hyde. The repeated emphasis on doors and their crossing signifies the ease with which Hyde emerges from the confines of Jekyll's controlled environment, threatening to spill into the world at large.

This use of doors extends beyond the literal. The novel suggests that the seemingly impenetrable barriers of Victorian society, its rigid social structures and moral codes, are, in fact, vulnerable to the intrusion of suppressed desires and primal instincts. The ease with which Hyde navigates the streets of London, despite his monstrous appearance, suggests a deeper societal hypocrisy, where appearances often mask a more sinister reality.

The City of London: A Reflection of Moral Decay

London itself serves as a significant symbol in the novel. The seemingly respectable and orderly cityscape contrasts sharply with the monstrous presence of Hyde and the dark deeds he perpetrates. The contrasting descriptions of the city’s different areas further enhance this duality. The elegant streets of Jekyll's neighborhood stand in stark opposition to the dark and gloomy alleys where Hyde lurks, reflecting the dichotomy between the outward appearance of Victorian society and the hidden depravity that festers beneath the surface.

The city's layout – its maze-like streets and hidden alleyways – symbolize the labyrinthine nature of human morality and the difficulty in navigating the complexities of good and evil. Hyde's ability to disappear into the city's underbelly reflects the ease with which hidden evils can be concealed within a seemingly well-ordered society. This symbolizes the potential for moral decay within even the most seemingly respectable settings, a reflection of Stevenson's commentary on Victorian hypocrisy.

The Significance of Setting: Jekyll's Laboratory and Hyde's Hideouts

The settings within London also contribute to the symbolic richness of the narrative. Jekyll's laboratory, a space of scientific experimentation and transformation, becomes a symbol of unchecked ambition and the dangerous pursuit of knowledge without ethical considerations. It's a place where the boundaries of science and morality are blurred, highlighting the potential for scientific advancements to be misused. Conversely, Hyde's various hiding places – the dingy lodgings and dark alleys – symbolize the shadowy corners of human nature and the potential for evil to thrive in secrecy and darkness.

The contrast between these two environments underscores the duality within the characters and the broader societal context. Jekyll's controlled environment represents order and reason, while Hyde's chaotic surroundings reflect the unpredictable and destructive nature of unleashed primal instincts. This symbolic opposition intensifies the reader's understanding of the inherent conflict between societal norms and the darker aspects of human nature.

The Symbolism of Physical Transformation

The physical transformation of Jekyll into Hyde is not merely a plot device; it is a powerful symbol of the internal struggle between good and evil. The grotesque physical changes that accompany the transformation represent the outward manifestation of the inner turmoil. Hyde's smaller stature, deformed features, and unsettling demeanor symbolize the repressed, monstrous aspects of Jekyll's personality. This physical manifestation of the inner conflict underscores the psychological depth of the story and the devastating consequences of suppressing one's true nature.

The Power of Repression and its Consequences

The transformation scene becomes a potent symbol of the dangers of repression. Jekyll's attempt to suppress his darker impulses, to separate the "good" from the "evil" within him, ultimately proves destructive. The more he tries to control his Hyde-like urges, the stronger they become, eventually leading to his complete disintegration. This highlights a central theme: suppressing a fundamental part of oneself is inherently damaging, leading to internal conflict and eventual self-destruction. The transformation itself serves as a visual representation of this destructive process.

Minor Symbols and Their Significance

Beyond the major symbols, several minor elements within the novel contribute to its overall symbolic richness:

• Utterson's role: Utterson, the steadfast lawyer, represents reason and cautious morality. His persistent investigation into Jekyll's affairs symbolizes the importance of confronting uncomfortable truths, even if doing so is difficult and unsettling.
• Poole's loyalty: Poole, Jekyll's loyal servant, represents unwavering devotion and the devastating consequences of witnessing the disintegration of a respected figure.
• The letter: The letter from Hyde to Utterson acts as a symbol of the impending danger and the insidious nature of evil's approach.
• The will: The alteration of Jekyll's will, favoring Hyde, signifies the creeping dominance of the darker side and the subversion of social order.
• The murder of Sir Danvers Carew: This act of brutal violence represents the unchecked unleashing of Hyde's primal instincts, highlighting the catastrophic consequences of surrendering to one's baser nature.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Symbolism

The enduring power of Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde stems in large part from its skillful use of symbolism. Stevenson masterfully employs symbols not merely as decorative elements but as integral components of the narrative, enhancing both the psychological depth of the story and its social commentary. The novel’s exploration of duality, repression, and the inherent conflict between good and evil remains deeply resonant today, offering a timeless reflection on the complexities of human nature and the enduring struggle between civilization and savagery. The symbols woven throughout the narrative amplify this exploration, leaving a lasting impression on the reader long after the final page is turned. The enduring legacy of Jekyll and Hyde lies not just in its captivating narrative, but in its rich symbolic landscape that continues to provoke thought and interpretation.